World Para Athletics Grand Prix Returns to India with Eight Nations Competing
India is set to reclaim its position as a global hub for para sports as the second edition of the World Para Athletics Grand Prix commences on March 11. This prestigious event will run until March 13, bringing together elite athletes from eight nations to compete for top honors in a display of international para athletic excellence.
International Participation and Indian Dominance
The tournament will feature participants from India, Russia, Nepal, Bhutan, Hong Kong, Serbia, Bosnia, and Egypt, underscoring the expanding international footprint of para athletics within the host nation. India will field the largest contingent, with approximately 219 athletes competing across multiple track-and-field events and various sport classifications.
This strong representation highlights India's growing commitment to para sports and provides a valuable platform for athletes to gain international exposure. The event is expected to further cement India's role as a premier host for global para sporting competitions.
Star-Studded Indian Line-Up
Several of India's top para-athletes are slated to compete, including:
- Mariyappan Thangavelu – Paralympic gold medallist
- Sumit Antil – Paralympic champion and world record holder
- Praveen Kumar – Paralympic gold medallist
The Indian roster also boasts other prominent athletes such as Ajeet Singh, Devendra Singh Gurjar, multiple Asian Para Games medallist Ankur Dhama, T12 sprinter Simran (gold medallist at the 2025 World Championships), and Preeti Pal (two bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Paralympics in the women's 100m and 200m T35 events).
Competition Details and Classification Significance
Athletes will participate in a wide array of disciplines, encompassing track and field events across different sport classifications. The Grand Prix serves as a crucial international stage for both established and emerging para-athletes, fostering competitive growth and recognition.
From a classification perspective, this home edition holds particular importance for Indian athletes. A total of 74 international classification slots will be available during the competition, including:
- 39 slots for athletes with physical impairments
- 29 slots for athletes with vision impairments
- 6 slots for athletes with intellectual impairments
Leadership Insights and Past Performance
Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India, emphasized the event's significance, stating, "With more than 250 athletes and participation from eight nations, the event highlights the growing global stature of para-athletics in India. The strong Indian contingent of 219 athletes will gain valuable international exposure while competing with some of the best para-athletes from across the world."
Reflecting on past success, the previous edition of the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in New Delhi in 2025 saw India deliver a dominant performance. The nation finished at the top of the standings with a total of 134 medals, comprising 45 gold, 40 silver, and 49 bronze medals, setting a high benchmark for this year's competition.
